NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Students heading to college this year can receive help with their FAFSA application from the state for the month of July.
This helps comes after students had to deal with delays with the FAFSA application rollout this spring. Now the state wants to make sure students do not miss out on potentially thousands of dollars in financial aid towards their college degree.
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission is hosting FAFSA Frenzy all month long to encourage students to complete their applications.
A report from the National college Attainment Network shows Tennessee is leading the nation with nearly 60 percent of students who graduated high school this year having completed their FAFSA application. However, that percentage is still down 11 percent compared to the same time last year.
FAFSA Frenzy aims to simplify the application process by offering events across the state throughout the month where students can get help in-person for one-on-one support. This week there are events happening in Montgomery County, Dekalb County, and Shelbyville as well as Austin Peay University.
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It’s a sad reality that area animal shelters and non-profit rescue organizations face constant overcrowding -- with so many dogs, cats and other animals waiting for a forever home. Jason Lamb reports here that Metro leaders are working with those groups – including Critter Cavalry – to find solutions. I’ve fostered a dog from Critter Cavalry, so I understand the need is great. And I found my pup Domino through another local group, Proverbs Animal Rescue. Ultimately, it starts with all of us. Getting more dogs and cats spayed or neutered can help control the pet population – and ease the burden.
-Rhori Johnston